Man struck by Kingsport city truck files lawsuit

KINGSPORT — A Kingsport man who was struck and knocked to the ground by a municipal vehicle earlier this year has filed a $300,000 lawsuit against the city.

William and Claudia Leonard filed the lawsuit in Sullivan County Circuit Court on Sept. 30. The lawsuit is in response to an incident that took place in downtown Kingsport on May 28.

According to the lawsuit, when William attempted to walk south across Center Street at the intersection with Shelby Street, he was struck by a city vehicle. The vehicle had been stopped on Shelby facing north, and as the light changed, it pulled onto Center and allegedly struck William, who was in the crosswalk.

The lawsuit states William was knocked to the pavement, causing a number of serious physical injuries, including bruises and abrasions; injuries to his left arm, shoulder, neck, and back; and some broken ribs.

William also claims he is experiencing a great deal of anxiety as a result of the incident, such as recurring memories of the event, along with fear and insecurity at times when he’s out as a pedestrian.

The lawsuit argues the city employee was negligent, failed to keep the vehicle under control and failed to keep a proper lookout. William is seeking $250,000 in damages, Claudia another $50,000.

Heather Cook, communications director for the city, said the city does not comment on pending litigation.